IHUK to manage EIHL officials allocations

The Elite League have appointed Simon Kirkham and Ice Hockey UK to run the allocation of the league’s officials next season.

The league’s officials are already registered with IHUK each year and this is another step forward in the strategic plan for the future of the sport. Tony Smith, Elite League chairman, said:

'It makes a lot of sense for the sport’s governing body to take charge of the officials.'

“The whole sport needs to come together and work more closely and this is just one of those steps in the right direction.” IHUK chief referee, Simon Kirkham, said:

'It fits in with the plans not just for the Elite League and Ice Hockey UK, but for the whole sport going forward.'

“We will be able to monitor the officials’ performances and make best use of the officials in various parts of the UK.

“The officials will also know they have a pathway to go on and represent the UK at IIHF tournaments. “UK officials are highly respected by the IIHF and that is shown by the amount who officiate at World Championship tournaments each year.”